Can I drink kombucha while breastfeeding?
Mayo Clinic advises people who are breastfeeding to avoid kombucha. It also reports cases of harm, including infections, and says evidence of benefit is limited. Some kombucha contains alcohol, which can rise if it keeps fermenting in the bottle. Talk to your doctor or midwife before drinking it.
Updated
Key facts
- Mayo Clinic: avoid. Advice covers pregnancy, breastfeeding and weakened immunity. [1]
- Alcohol can rise. In-bottle fermentation can push kombucha to 0.5% or more. [2]
- Ask a professional. Your doctor, midwife or pharmacist can advise on your situation.
What does the guidance say?
Mayo Clinic says there isn't enough proof that kombucha tea has the health benefits claimed, that cases of harm have been reported, and that people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid it. [1]
Why does alcohol matter?
TTB explains that fermentation of sugar and yeast may give kombucha 0.5% alcohol or more, and that even a product below that at bottling can keep fermenting and rise above it. [2] Alcohol and breastfeeding is a question for your healthcare provider.
Are there alternatives?
Plain tea or other non-fermented drinks avoid both issues. For pregnancy: is kombucha safe during pregnancy.
Related answers: is kombucha safe during pregnancy · kombucha side effects
Related on Cider Radar
- Open neighbouring answers before you change what you eat or drink.
- Guide: what is cider.
We don't give health advice. For questions about your health, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.
Questions
Is shop-bought kombucha alcohol-free?
Not necessarily. TTB notes kombucha below 0.5% at bottling can ferment further in the bottle and reach 0.5% or more. [2]
Sources
- Kombucha tea: Does it have health benefits? — Mayo Clinic
- Kombucha Information and Resources — Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB)